One of the first things people think of when talking about the dentist is fillings. Many people know dental fillings are used to fix cavities, but most people don’t know much more than that. The process of filling cavities is fairly simple and is done right at your dentist’s office. There are several methods available for dental fillings today, and at Michael C. Armstrong DDS, we’re happy to walk you through your options and provide you with the fillings that will best serve you.
Dental Fillings: What to Expect
Generally, dental fillings are used for cavities, but they can also be used to repair damaged teeth due to teeth grinding, or broken teeth. A cavity is a hole in your tooth, that is left behind after tooth decay destroys a part of the tooth. Cavities contain bacteria and if they go unchecked, the tooth decay will continue to spread throughout the mouth. A dental filling is used to stop this spreading. With a filling, your dentist will clean away any decay, to make sure they are filling a clean surface.
The dental filling procedure should take no more than an hour. This gives your dentist enough time to take x-rays if needed and talk to you about the work getting done. Before filling cavities, you will have your teeth numbed, as well as your gums and surrounding skin to lessen your discomfort during the dental filling. After the procedure, you may remain numb for several hours, but there are no significant risks with a dental filling.
Dental Fillings: Types Available
There are many types of dental fillings available, and each option has it’s pros and cons. The best dental filling for you depends on your aesthetic preferences, the cost, and your insurance. Our team works with you to make sure you get the right fit for you. There is a wide range of filling types, but the two most common fillings are amalgam and composite.
Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings are a strong filling, that is commonly used for teeth where heavy chewing takes place, such as molars in the back of the mouth. This type of filling is made of metallic elements, so they can be noticeable when you smile or laugh. These types of fillings are often the least expensive kind. They also are the most researched material used for filling cavities because they have been around for over a century.
Composite Fillings
Composite fillings are more popular because they can be made to match the color of your teeth. This style of filling is sometimes referred to as composites or filled resins, and they are made with a combination of glass or quartz filler. Composites are fairly durable and work great for small to medium restorations. This style of filling is often used in areas of your mouth that perform moderate chewing.
Metals, Ceramic, and Glass Ionomer Fillings
The remainder filling types include metals, such as gold or silver, ceramics, usually porcelain, and glass ionomer, which is a blend of acrylic and glass. These styles range in price point, appearance, and durability. Talk to your dentist to find what style of filling is best for you.
Dental Fillings: Why They’re Important
Tooth decay destroys your teeth. A cavity can cause tooth sensitivity, it can expose inner nerves, compromise your tooth’s structural integrity, and can cause continued infection. By getting a dental filling to fill in the hole, your dentist can restore full functionality to your damaged tooth.
With our dental fillings, you’ll come out with less pain, better self-esteem, and improved oral health. This creates a happier and healthier you! At Michael C. Armstrong DDS we take the time to learn about you and customize the best solution for you. To learn more about dental fillings, visit our website. We are happy to answer any questions you may have, so feel free to contact us at any time.